North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appears to be positioning his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his eventual successor, according to recent reports. The move comes as observers note a series of key moments suggesting the young Kim is being groomed for leadership of the isolated nation. This potential dynastic succession is being closely watched internationally, given North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and regional impact.
South Korean lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun revealed the assessment following a briefing from the nation’s intelligence agency, the National Intelligence Service (NIS). Lee stated that the NIS believes Kim Ju Ae is now “clearly designated as the successor.”
One key indicator of this shift is Kim Ju Ae’s increasingly frequent appearances at state occasions. According to Lee, the NIS has also observed signs that she is being included in discussions regarding government policy.
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT
The Kim family has ruled North Korea for decades, bolstered by a strong cult of personality surrounding the “Paektu bloodline.” In recent years, Kim Ju Ae has been increasingly visible in public alongside her father at strategic events, including military activities and state functions.
North Korean state media showcased Kim Ju Ae in January accompanying her father in a visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the mausoleum of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. This moment further fueled speculation about her potential as the next leader.
Who is Kim Ju Ae?
Kim Ju Ae is believed to be 13 years ancient and is the daughter of Kim Jong Un and his wife, Ri Sol Ju.
Her existence was initially unknown to the outside world. News of Kim Ju Ae first surfaced through an unexpected source: American basketball player Dennis Rodman.
|
North Korean leadKim Jong Un (via REUTERS/KCNA)
|
In 2013, Rodman told The Guardian that he “held their baby, Ju Ae,” during a trip to the secluded country.
“I held their baby, Ju Ae, and spoke with (Kim’s wife),” Rodman recounted of his visit to North Korea.
During a closed-door briefing in 2023, the NIS informed South Korean lawmakers that Kim Ju Ae was not registered at any formal educational institutions and receives homeschooling in Pyongyang. The report also indicated that she enjoys hobbies such as horseback riding, swimming, and skiing.
The NIS reported that Kim Ju Ae has an older brother and a younger sibling, whose gender has not been confirmed by the agency. Neither of Ju Ae’s siblings has been seen in public to date.
Key Moments in Ju Ae’s Public Appearances
Kim Ju Ae first appeared on North Korean state television in 2022, accompanying Kim Jong Un during an inspection of the country’s latest intercontinental ballistic missile.
Since then, her number of appearances in North Korean state media has steadily increased, transforming her from a quiet presence at her father’s side into a familiar face during important national moments.
North Korean state media, which rarely mentions names, now frequently describes Kim Ju Ae as “beloved” or “respected,” or as a “great person guiding the future.”
Her public appearances are also seen by some as an attempt to soften her father’s image as a ruthless dictator. Ju Ae accompanied Kim Jong Un to Beijing for the largest military parade ever held in China, where she was seen exiting an armored vehicle at Beijing Railway Station.
She has often been seen sporting long hair, which is reportedly prohibited for individuals her age, and wearing designer clothing, which is unaffordable for most North Koreans.
A state media photograph from November 2023 placed her in the foreground, with her father in the background. This was considered a rare moment that, according to analysts, would not have occurred without Kim Jong Un’s approval.
In a public display of affection, Kim Jong Un and Ju Ae were shown kissing cheeks during the New Year’s Eve 2024 celebration at a Pyongyang stadium packed with citizens. In recent months, Kim Ju Ae has also appeared taller than her father.
She has been seen walking alongside Kim Jong Un, rather than following behind him. In North Korea, where photographs published by state media are believed to carry significant symbolic weight, it is rare for individuals other than Kim Jong Un to be positioned so prominently within a photo frame.
This year, Kim Ju Ae also joined her father in receiving foreign officials. Her presence has also been highlighted above senior aides to Kim Jong Un in state media coverage of important government events.
Halaman 2 dari 4
(haf/isa)
